Joo Chiat and Katong felt completely different from the rest of Singapore.
After spending time around Marina Bay and the more “iconic” spots, coming here felt slower, more local, and honestly a bit more interesting.
The streets are colourful, the food is some of the best I had in Singapore, and it’s one of those areas where you don’t really need a strict plan, you can just walk and see what you find.
This is also where you really start to see Singapore’s mix of cultures. You’ve got Peranakan heritage all around this area, with old shophouses, temples, cafés, bakeries, street art, and modern little spots all layered together.
If I was planning a trip again, I’d 100% set aside at least half a day here… but realistically, it turns into a full day once you start eating and stopping everywhere.
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Book before arriving in Katong & Joo Chiat
Bike Tour of Katong District
Katong Local Food Tour
Staying Among the Colourful Shophouses of Joo Chiat & Katong?
($) Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong
($$) Village Hotel Katong
($$$) Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong
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Why Visit Joo Chiat & Katong?
This area feels more lived-in than other parts of Singapore.
It used to be a seaside retreat and later became home to Peranakan families, which is why you see those colourful, detailed shophouses everywhere.
Even now, it still feels residential in parts, which is what makes it so different from the city centre.
What I liked most is that it doesn’t feel overly curated.
You’ve got old bakeries next to trendy cafés, quiet streets next to busy food spots, and places that feel like they’ve been there forever. Plus, the street art in the area just adds something special!
Getting to Joo Chiat & Katong
It’s not directly on a main MRT stop like other areas, but it’s still easy to get to.
I just used Grab to get here, which was quick and straightforward.
If you prefer public transport, you can get close and then walk into the area.
👉 If you want it to feel a bit easier (especially your first time), I’d actually book a small neighbourhood tour here so you don’t miss the key spots
Things to See and Do
This is probably the most recognisable part of Joo Chiat.
The pastel-coloured houses are exactly what you’ve seen online, but in person they’re even nicer. The details on the tiles, the colours, the symmetry… it all feels very different from the rest of Singapore.
I went in the morning and it was much quieter, which made a big difference.
Just keep in mind people actually live here, so it’s more about walking through and appreciating them rather than stopping for too long.
Once you leave the main photo spots, the area opens up a bit more.
This is where you’ll find cafés, bakeries, small shops and local restaurants.
It’s one of those streets where you don’t really need a plan. Just walk, stop when something looks good, and keep going.
There’s a lot more street art here than I expected.
Some of it is obvious, but a lot of it is tucked away in smaller alleys, which makes it feel a bit like you’re discovering it as you go.
Medley Alley is probably the most popular and was my favourite, with the wing mural, but there are others scattered around if you keep walking.
👉 If you want to find all the hidden ones without missing them, I’d join a walking tour here because they’re not always easy to spot
This is one of the more unique experiences in the area.
It’s basically a preserved Peranakan home filled with antiques, furniture, and traditional pieces. It feels less like a museum and more like stepping into someone’s house.
Visits are usually by appointment, so it’s something you need to plan ahead.
👉 I’d book this in advance here if you want something more cultural and different from the usual sightseeing
This is one of the most striking temples in the area.
The entrance is detailed and colourful, and it’s still actively used, so you’ll see people coming and going throughout the day.
Just make sure you’re dressed appropriately and respectful when visiting.
This is another private collection, but even more personal.
It’s run by a local collector, and the experience includes stories, tea, and a deeper look into Peranakan culture.
This is something a bit different from typical sightseeing.
You can join a workshop where you learn traditional Peranakan beadwork, which is actually more detailed than it looks and so beautiful as well!
👉 I’d book this here if you want a hands-on experience instead of just walking around
This is another great spot to add to your itinerary.
It’s known for Peranakan culture, food, and traditional items, and it gives you a bit more insight into the heritage of the area. It’s not open every day, so it’s worth checking opening times before you go.
Where to Eat in Joo Chiat & Katong
Chin Mee Chin is one of the most well-known spots here.
It feels like stepping back in time, and it’s where you can try kaya toast, kopi and soft boiled eggs.
Simple, but really good. One of the best kaya toast I had in Singapore!
This is one of the dishes Singapore is known for, and this is where it comes from.
328 Katong Laksa is the most famous spot, and it’s worth trying at least once. This was one of the best dishes I had while in Singapore as well.
The noodles are cut shorter so you can eat it with a spoon, and the broth is rich and coconut-based.
👉 If you want to try a few dishes properly, I’d book a food tour here so you don’t miss the best spots
There are a few places around here known for prawn noodles and other local dishes.
It’s one of those meals that looks simple but has a lot of flavour.
If you want something a bit more traditional, there are a few great options here.
Dishes like ayam buah, keluak, otak-otak and tamarind-based curries.
These are harder to find elsewhere, so this is the place to try them.
This area is also full of cafés, so of course you’ll need to make a stop for one while you’re here.
Some spots I’d check out Birds of Paradise (gelato), Forty Hands and Common Man Coffee
However, one of my favourites was Kopikoo, which is a small hole-in-the-wall café down a colourful street. It was quite the experience.
It’s very easy to lose a couple of hours just café hopping here.
Where to Stay in Katong
If you want something a bit different from the city centre, this is a great area to stay.
It’s quieter, but still has plenty around, and everything is within walking distance, which makes it really easy to explore.
👉 I’d check hotels in Katong here if you want something more local but still well connected
Staying Among the Colourful Shophouses of Joo Chiat & Katong? Yes, Please.
($) Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong
($$) Village Hotel Katong
($$$) Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong
Where I Stayed in Singapore
Watch our hotel review staying at Mercure Singapore
FAQ for Joo Chiat & Katong
Yes, especially if you want something more local and less touristy.
Peranakan houses, food, and its cultural heritage.
Half a day minimum, but a full day is better.
Yes, Grab or taxis are the easiest option.
Laksa, prawn mee, Peranakan dishes, and local desserts.
Yes, you can walk around them, but they are private homes.
Yes, there are plenty of cafés and bakeries to try.
Yes, they’re right next to each other and easy to combine.
Read More ✈️
Singapore Hawker Centres You Can’t Miss
Things to Do in Joo Chiat & Katong That Feel Like the Real Singapore
My Favourite Things to Do in Bugis & Kampong Gelam
Singapore Itinerary 1, 2, 3 or 4 Days – What to Do Each Day
How to Plan Your First Trip to Singapore (Full Guide)
Top Free and Iconic Things to Do in Singapore for First-Time Visitors
Where I Stayed in Singapore (And What I’d Recommend)
Things to Do in Marina Bay Singapore for First-Time Visitors
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